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St Johns Travel Resources

St Johns Travel Resources

St Johns Newfoundland And Labrador, Canada Travel Guide

Essential Digital Tools

Navigation & Weather

  • Weather Apps:

    The Weather Network or AccuWeather for rapid local forecasts.

  • Mapping Apps:

    Google Maps or Apple Maps for navigation, transit, and points of interest. Download offline maps.

  • Transit App:

    Real-time information for Metrobus, including schedules and tracking.

  • Ride-Sharing:

    Uber or KABU if you plan to use these services.

  • Currency Converter:

    Helpful for managing your budget and understanding costs in CAD.

Communication & Security

  • Wi-Fi Finder:

    Locate public Wi-Fi spots for connectivity.

  • Language Learning:

    Babbel can help with local phrases or French if traveling elsewhere in Canada. Babbel

  • VPN Service:

    NordVPN for secure internet access on public networks. NordVPN

  • Travel Cards:

    Travel rewards cards like Capital One Travel can enhance benefits. Capital One Travel

  • Packing Organizers:

    Resources like Eagle Creek for efficient packing solutions. Eagle Creek

Online Information

Official Tourism

Destination St. John's and Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism websites offer comprehensive guides.

Destination St. John's

National Parks

Parks Canada provides information on Signal Hill and Cape Spear.

Parks Canada

Cultural Sites

The Rooms website has details on the provincial museum, art gallery, and archives.

The Rooms Metrobus Transit

Planning & Local Insights

Social Media Presence

  • Official Accounts: Search for official tourism accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) for updates and inspiration.
  • Local News: Follow local news outlets for current events and community happenings.
  • Community Forums: Reddit's r/StJohnsNL or r/Newfoundland subreddits offer local perspectives and tips.
  • Travel Blogs: Discover travel blogs focusing on Newfoundland for personal insights and recommendations.

Digital Content

  • Podcasts: Search for "Newfoundland podcasts" or "St. John's podcasts" for engaging cultural and historical content.
  • Documentaries: Look for films on Newfoundland's fishing industry, history, and unique communities.
  • Local Music: Stream music by Great Big Sea, Alan Doyle, or The Navigators for a lively folk experience.
  • Online Galleries: Explore virtual tours or online galleries of local art.

Broader Resources

Travel Insurance

  • World Nomads for travel insurance.
  • World Nomads
  • Consider comprehensive coverage.
  • Review policy details carefully.

Language niceties

  • Engage with the local Newfoundland dialect.
  • Listen to local media for common phrases.
  • It's an unique linguistic experience.
  • No foreign language required.

Cultural Arts

  • Discover local artists in St. John's galleries.
  • Attend live music sessions at pubs.
  • Experience traditional storytelling.
  • Appreciate local crafts.

Print Resources

Literary Guides & Maps

Maps & Guides

  • General Canada guidebooks contain St. John's sections.
  • Find maps and brochures at the Visitor Information Centre upon arrival.
  • For extensive hiking, consider a detailed East Coast Trail map.
  • Regional road maps enhance car travel.

Recommended Reading

  • "The Shipping News" by Annie Proulx (fiction, captures spirit).
  • "Random Passage" by Bernice Morgan (historical fiction).
  • "A History of Newfoundland and Labrador" by James K. Hiller (non-fiction).
  • These titles deepen cultural understanding.

Local Publications

  • The Telegram (St. John's daily newspaper) for current events.
  • The Independent (weekly news publication) for local perspectives.
  • Discover community happenings and local insights.
  • Available at newsstands and shops.

Packing Essentials

Smart Packing Aids

  • Reusable Bags: Carry Reusable bags for shopping to minimize waste.
  • Water Bottle: Bring a Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic use.
  • Layered Clothing: Always pack layers for rapidly changing weather conditions.

Home Safeguards

  • Secure Home: Lock all doors and windows before your journey.
  • Mail Arrangements: Arrange for mail to be held or collected by a trusted person.
  • Bill Payments: Confirm all necessary bill payments are scheduled or automated.

Traveler Preparedness

Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Passport Validity: Confirm passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date.
  • Visa/eTA: Obtain a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if required for your nationality.
  • Flight Bookings: Secure flights, especially for peak summer or holiday travel.

Travel Protection

  • Travel Insurance: Consider comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and baggage.
  • Car Rental: Book a rental car if exploring beyond downtown St. John's.
  • Major Tours: Book whale watching or iceberg tours ahead, specifically for summer dates.

Departure Logistics

Souvenir & Shipping

  1. Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure.
  2. Check airline luggage weight limits to avoid excess fees.
  3. Inquire at Canada Post or local courier services for shipping items home.
  4. Plan ahead for last-minute purchases.
  5. Consider local artisan shops for unique finds.

Airport & Documents

  1. Confirm return flight details 24-48 hours before departure.
  2. Complete online check-in if possible for smoother process.
  3. Ensure all necessary documents are ready for your journey.
  4. Arrive at the airport with ample time for check-in and security.
  5. St. John's International Airport (YYT) handles departures.

Practical Departure Tips

Airport Timing

Arrive at St. John's International Airport (YYT) 1.5 to 2 hours before domestic flights, 2 to 3 hours for international.

Baggage Check

Verify your airline's baggage allowance to prevent unexpected fees.

Tax Refunds

Canada does not feature a general VAT refund program for tourists on goods purchased and taken out of the country.

Emergency Contact Reminder

Keep 911 for immediate threats. Health Sciences Centre for medical emergencies. Report lost documents to your embassy and local police.

Emergency Essentials

Contacts

Crisis Numbers

  • Emergency Services:

    911 for immediate Police, Fire, Ambulance services.

  • Major Hospital:

    Health Sciences Centre: (709) 777-6300.

  • Poison Centre:

    Canadian Poison Centre: 1-800-268-9017.

Non-Urgent Contacts

  • Non-Emergency Police:

    RNC (Royal Newfoundland Constabulary): (709) 729-8000.

  • Walk-in Clinics:

    Available for non-emergency medical situations. Locate closest upon arrival.

  • Lost Documents:

    Contact your embassy and report loss to RNC immediately.

Medical & Safety Planning

Medical Facilities

St. Clare's Mercy Hospital also provides services in addition to Health Sciences Centre. Walk-in clinics serve non-emergency needs.

Consulate Support

Check your home country's foreign affairs website for embassy or consulate details in Canada. They are usually in major cities, assisting citizens in emergencies.

Natural Disasters

In severe weather like blizzards, follow local government advisories from gov.nl.ca. A Weather radio can be useful for remote areas.

NL Government Advisories

Traveler Preparedness

Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Passport Validity: Confirm passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date.
  • Visa/eTA: Obtain a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if required for your nationality.
  • Flight Bookings: Secure flights, especially for peak summer or holiday travel.
  • Accommodation: Book lodging well in advance as popular B&Bs and hotels fill quickly.

Travel Protection

  • Travel Insurance: Consider comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and baggage.
  • Car Rental: Book a rental car if exploring beyond downtown St. John's.
  • Major Tours: Book whale watching or iceberg tours ahead, specifically for summer dates.
  • Itinerary Planning: Outline attractions and activities for each day.

Home & Device Readiness

At Home

  • Home Security: Secure your home, locking doors and windows.
  • Mail & Bills: Arrange for mail and schedule bill payments.
  • Emergency Contacts: Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Pet/House Sitting: Arrange for care for pets or your home if needed.

Digital Devices

  • Offline Maps: Download maps for St. John's and any essential apps.
  • Charge Devices: Fully charge all electronic devices before departure.
  • Document Copies: Print and save digital copies of important documents on your phone and cloud.
  • Currency/Bank: Obtain some Canadian currency or notify your bank of travel plans.

Visitor Information Centre

Upon arrival, visit the Visitor Information Centre at the airport or downtown for maps, brochures, and current local advice.

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